Ben Pollack Vol 3 CD

With clarinetist Benny Goodman, trombonist Jack Teagarden, and cornetist Jimmy McPartland as key soloists, the Ben Pollack Orchestra would seem to be one of the finest big bands of 1929. Unfortunately, many of their recordings were somewhat commercial. Pollack, a fine drummer, hired Ray Bauduc to play drums while he fronted the band, taking occasional insipid vocals and also featuring the vocals of Smith Ballew and Scrappy Lambert. On volume three, the packaging of Jazz Oracle's Ben Pollack reissue series is beyond criticism, including 14 selections, plus 11 alternate takes (the latter are placed at the end of the disc), highlighted by "Wait 'Til You See Ma Cherie," "My Kinda Love," and "True Blue Lou." But the jazz content is not as strong as one would expect from this potentially major band. ~ Scott Yanow

Collection of hot big band dance music from 1929 is the 3rd volume in a projected 5 volume series. Features Jack Teagarden, Jimmy McPartland, and vocals by Smith Ballew & Scrappy Lambert

Recorded in 1929.

Personnel: Ben Pollack (vocals); Scrappy Lambert, Smith Ballew (vocals); Dick Morgan (guitar, banjo); Edward Bergman, Alex Beller (violin); Gil Rodin (flute, clarinet, soprano saxophone, alto saxophone); Larry Binyon (flute, clarinet, soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone); John Wilby, John R.T. Davies (recorder); Benny Goodman (clarinet, alto saxophone, baritone saxophone); Joe Catalyne (clarinet, alto saxophone); Ruby Weinstein, Murphy Steinberg, Snub Pollard (trumpet); Jimmy McPartland (cornet); Jack Teagarden (trombone); Harry Goodman (tuba); Vic Breidis (piano); Ray Bauduc (drums).

Audio Remasterer: John R.T. Davies.

Liner Note Author: Joe Showler.

Recording information: 03/01/1929-11/27/1929.

Personnel includes: Ben Pollack (leader, drums); Smith Ballew, Scrappy Lambert (vocals); Jimmy McPartland (cornet); Jack Teagarden (trombone).